Domestic Abuse

If an incident of domestic abuse is happening now or someone has been injured or in danger, call 999. In a non-emergency, call Cheshire Police on 101.

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse is defined as any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. This can include, but is not limited to the following types of abuse:

The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary, just one encounter counts as abuse, and it can be an ongoing pattern of behaviour. However, the one constant element of domestic abuse is the consistency of the abuser to maintain power and control over the victim.

Changes to the definition of domestic abuse in 2016 mean that young people aged 16 and 17 can also be victims of domestic violence and abuse

By including this age group, the government hopes to encourage young people to come forward and get the support they need.

Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexuality or social background. If you are suffering from physical, sexual, psychological, emotional or financial abuse, or are being threatened, intimidated or stalked by a current or previous partner or family member, it’s likely you’re a victim of domestic abuse.

You may be feeling frightened, isolated, ashamed or confused but please do not suffer in silence, help is available.

If an incident of domestic abuse is happening now or someone has been injured or in danger, call 999. In a non-emergency, call Cheshire Police on 101.